It amazes me how many people multi-task while driving.

I doubt it is just the “Type A” centric D.C. area, but people around here do not like to waste time.

Most of the distraction revolves around cell phones. People typically seem to be doing one of a few things:

• Texting
• Talking
• Web browsing

Web browsing is the activity people are performing when flicking their finger across the screen. This could also be using their phone’s GPS. Let’s assume for the sake of simplicity they are causing the same problems.

It seems that the first two, texting and talking, can be accomplished while driving. Or at least people think. Studies don’t need to show me the effect of mobile phone talking and driving. I can observe it on a daily basis. Ever drive behind someone going 10 under the speed limit? Only to find out they are chatting away on their cellular?

I’m convinced people don’t realize how much their driving skills decrease while socializing via wireless telephone. If I was a mean person, I might mention it to them if I had the chance.

What really irks me is the lack of technology usage. I’m not telling everyone to buy a bluetooth headset (although you can pick them up cheap online). The most annoying thing is new car (within the last 2 years we’ll say) owners who don’t use their built in bluetooth. I realize not every car has it, but I would be willing to bet that if you drive a semi-expensive car (or better), you could sync it up and use both hands while driving.

When I was out in Minneapolis a few weeks ago, I had a Ford Fusion Hybrid that had that Microsoft Sync technology. I’d never used it before and was surprised at how easily and quickly it found my Touch Pro.

Don’t tell me you are too old to figure it out. If so, you aren’t too old to die in a fiery car crash. (Too much?)

Texting seems to be a bigger risk. With these young kids texting every four seconds, it scares me when people try to type on their phones while driving. You have two options:

1. Look down while trying to type with one hand
2. Type with two hands and ignore the steering wheel (alternatively use your leg to steady the wheel)

Which option seems safe? Maybe there was a third option. Feel free to let me know.

Web browsing seems to be a popular activity at stop lights. I guess I don’t really have a problem with this as long as people don’t clog up traffic or try to read the screen while driving.

But seriously, I’m not perfect either. I own at least two bluetooth headsets that I attempt to use when talking on the phone. It doesn’t always happen.
I will admit I am forced to text on occasion when it is necessary to communicate (mainly with my wife).

Mainly, I hook up my phone to my stereo so I can stream internet radio. Changing streams requires one hand but doesn’t require looking at the phone. It probably isn’t the safest either, but I’ll equate that to switching stations on the radio.

What ever happened to listening to music and driving? Mostly concentrating on the point of the trip, getting from point A to point B? Not possible anymore?

I’m not saying people have to be good drivers. I’m definitely not. But at least I try. Why purposely give yourself a handicap?

I better not get in an accident after posting this….